Program: Honours Life Sciences
Hometown: Toronto, ON
LATAM 2A03: Introduction to Latin American & Latinx Studies! I took this course in my third year at McMaster, and it completely changed the way I approached my science degree. I had always had an interest in interdisciplinary learning and, up until that point, I had only taken the typical Life Sciences requirement courses.
LATAM 2A03, taught by Dr. Rodrigo Narro Pérez and Dr. Stacy Creech de Castro, focuses on all aspects of Latin American & Latinx Studies, making it truly designed for any profile of interest – from pop culture to history, health, literature, and environmental science – it covers it all!
I was also fortunate enough to have been a TA for this class, which was such a full-circle moment to give back to a course that has given me so much perspective in my undergraduate career. Even if you aren’t Latin American or Latinx, this course is designed for all Faculties, backgrounds, and individuals to gain a better understanding of the field of Latin American & Latinx Studies. As a science student, taking courses from different Faculties helped me develop valuable skills and evaluate how the sciences can be viewed from a human perspective.
Dr. Stacy Creech de Castro is someone I hugely look up to at McMaster, and I am so lucky to have learned from and worked alongside her. Dr. Creech de Castro is such a passionate educator and powerful advocate for Latin American & Latinx Studies, and she consistently reminded me that I had a place in the field of study despite not being Latin American myself. With her academic background ranging from medical research to gothic literature, she encouraged me to explore all that I am passionate about – the sciences, history, and culture – without sacrificing any for the other.
Presenting my thesis, “Assessing Patient Outcomes of IPL Treatment on Dry Eye Disease Using JENVIS: An Objective Approach,” at the Interdisciplinary Research Symposium was the perfect culmination of everything I had learned during my Life Sciences degree. All the research methods, statistical analysis, and writing techniques I had worked on over my five years became so useful when putting together my final paper and presentation. I am incredibly thankful to my supervisors, Dr. Allan Slomovic and Dr. Heather Sheardown, for all their encouragement through this process. Dr. Slomovic took me on as a young learner and has been such a pivotal mentor to me every step of my journey. From fleshing out ideas for my thesis with a pen and a napkin to driving over an hour in traffic to watch me present in Hamilton, Dr. Slomovic has shown up in every way possible to ensure I felt supported as a researcher.
All my grandparents! They have been such huge supporters of my academic journey and have always reminded me of that whenever I see them. Their sacrifices and prayers are undoubtedly what have brought me to this day, and I am forever grateful for the bond my parents encouraged me to have with them from an early age.
Take advantage of all the clubs and opportunities. Whether that be a hobby you’ve never explored or an aspect of your identity that is near to your heart, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and will meet some lovely people! During my time at McMaster, I have particularly appreciated being involved in the McMaster Ismaili Students’ Association (MISA), the Latin American Network at McMaster University (LANMU), the McMaster Science Society (MSS), EYE MAC, and various intramural activities. I learned a lot about myself and tried out some really cool activities I never would have thought possible!
Convocation, Students